Bullet Train to Murder | ONC novella ✓

3 | elusive encounters

Molly navigated the bustling streets of Chicago, the city alive with the rhythm of footsteps and distant car horns. The chill in the air hinted at an impending winter as she made her way to the Chicago Union of Forensics, a grand venue hosting the international seminars that brought together top minds in policing and high-stakes detective work.

Her fingers danced over her phone, deftly sending the intricate details of Dane Wade's case to the NYPD. The response, swift and methodical, wove a tapestry of potential leads. The response came swiftly, detailing potential leads. The drug dealer remained elusive, but there were threads to follow. There was a statement from the tailor who had sewn his suit — he described Dane as a decent man who had been wronged by his wife, Lena Mayer, who left him for a wealthier partner. Dane confided in him that he hadn't heard from his wife since their separation

Within the hallowed halls of the conference, an electric buzz permeated the air. It was a congregation of brilliant minds, each seeking progress in forensic research. Molly, though immersed in her own investigation, observed the eclectic crowd from a distance. The symphony of fragrances — coffee mingled with hushed conversations — created an atmosphere pregnant with intellectual anticipation.

Seated at a table, Molly indulged in measured sips of wine, her keen eyes scanning the room. In the midst of her observation, Miguel Locke, a fellow detective, sauntered over.

"Interesting event, huh?" he remarked, his eyes surveying the surroundings.

Molly nodded, "Yes, always informative."

They engaged in casual conversation, but Molly's attention wavered as her phone buzzed. A message from Mr. Bingo, the unknown figure, illuminated the screen.

Mr. Bingo: You look beautiful in formals.

Molly rolled her eyes and gritted her teeth. She retorted, "The last time I checked, I didn't ask for a second opinion on my appearance. You've been on my trail, what do you even want?"

Mr. Bingo: Isn't a guy allowed to admire his dream girl?

Molly sighed, "Your 'dream girl' isn't interested in you."

Mr. Bingo: It's worth trying, though.

Molly sighed in impatience, "What do you even want?"

Mr. Bingo: There's a person in your event that doesn't belong there. You might want to be alert.

Molly questioned skeptically, "And how are you so sure about it?"

Mr. Bingo: Figure it out for yourself.

Molly pressed for more information, "Any clues?"

No response.

Molly continued, "Hello??" She snapped her phone shut, a deep sigh escaping her lips.

Refocusing on the event, Molly listened attentively as the host took the stage, unraveling the advancements in biochips and generative tissue technology. The potential for a new era in forensic research unfolded, bringing with it a blend of promise and complexity.

Throughout the lecture, Molly maintained a vigilant gaze on the attendees, seeking any irregularities. Yet, her thoughts lingered on Mr. Bingo's cryptic warning. The sensation of being watched intensified, prompting Molly to feel the weight of an unseen presence.

On her way to the washroom, a fleeting encounter with a man in a navy blue suit beckoned her attention. His tousled hair, a lingering price tag, and a mysterious symbol caught Molly's discerning eye. Before she could scrutinize it further, he vanished into the crowd, leaving her with an unresolved enigma.

Veiled whispers hinted at concealed truths, and Molly's internal turmoil, combined with the cryptic messages, choreographed a captivating dance of suspense.

As the event continued, Molly grappled with the dual nature of her surroundings — the promise of technological progress and the underlying mysteries that threatened to engulf her.

Word Count: 564

hey folks! the third chapter is up. we get a deeper insight into the tapestry of events, and things seem to get thicker.

along with unknown (mr. bingo xD) we have a new elusive character.

what are your theories so far? comment below!

stay strong and keep going <3

cheers,
sara